Senior Freight-In Logistics Manager

Location: Nationwide (Remote & Travel Required)
Preferred to be located in Southern California (Redland), Kentucky, Palmdale, California, or Richmond, Virginia.

Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt
Pay Rate: $40–$45 per hour (W2)

Job Purpose

We are seeking an experienced Senior Freight-In Logistics Manager to lead and optimize inbound logistics operations across our U.S. service centers. This high-impact role is responsible for managing a team of 10+ logistics professionals nationwide, coordinating across multiple time zones, and delivering exceptional customer service to Trader Joe’s.

The ideal candidate will be a strategic leader with deep expertise in vendor pickups, broker network management, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Nationwide Team Leadership: Manage, mentor, and develop a team of 10+ logistics professionals throughout the United States, ensuring collaboration and performance across time zones.
• Vendor & Broker Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and logistics brokers. Oversee a large-scale broker network and ensure dedicated carriers maintain capacity for growth.
• Customer Service for Trader Joe’s: Serve as the primary logistics contact for Trader Joe’s, providing timely communication, resolving issues, and ensuring high satisfaction.
• Process Improvement: Work with Logistics and Service Center Managers to drive continuous improvement and implement best practices.
• Performance Management: Establish and monitor KPIs and metrics, lead quarterly performance reviews, and support skill development.
• Operational Excellence: Oversee planning, unloading, and merchandising of inbound shipments. Utilize tracking technologies for real-time shipment monitoring and delivery timeliness.
• Route Optimization: Analyze and optimize shipping routes to minimize costs and maximize efficiency.
• Financial & Strategic Reporting: Prepare financial and management reports, present industry rate trends, and align logistics operations with business objectives.
• Compliance & Safety: Ensure all operations comply with company policies, industry regulations, and safety standards, including OSHA.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in logistics management, focusing on inbound operations, broker network oversight, and team leadership across multiple time zones.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing and developing diverse teams.
• Strategic thinker with strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and logistics systems (TMW, WMS, Road Net TMS, Truckmate, PC Miler, Qualcomm GPS, Load Boards, Freight Calculators).
• Ability to travel as required and work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
• Experience in food distribution and USDA.
• Skilled in data analytics, self-motivated, and experienced in supply chain management.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in warehouse or service center environments with variable temperatures.
• Must be able to operate safely around heavy moving equipment in a fast-paced setting.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Disclaimer

This position description indicates the general nature and level of work expected. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required. Employee may be asked to perform other duties as required.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40.00 - $45.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Location:

• Palmdale, CA (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Palmdale, CA (Required)

Work Location: In person